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AudiologyThe ability to hear is an important sense that allows individuals to communicate and stay connected with the world around them. More than 30 million Americans have some degree of hearing loss. When left untreated, hearing loss impacts the ability to communicate effectively which, in turn, can cause decreased quality of life. Isolation, loneliness, and depression are often reported by those experiencing hearing difficulty. Penn Medicine's Division of Audiology can provide the diagnosis and treatment necessary to improve communication and ultimately enhance quality of life.
Hearing loss can be complex. There are many causes and types of hearing loss. Additionally, varying degrees of loss can affect one's communication differently. Penn audiologists work closely with the patient's physician to provide a customized, patient-centered approach to care. Time is spent counseling the patients so that they understand their hearing problem or disorder. Together with their audiologist and physician, patients make choices about their care, which will help them achieve the goal of optimal communication and improved quality of life. Diagnostic ServicesThe human ear is highly complex in design and function. Proper identification of the type and degree of hearing loss is paramount to establishing an appropriate treatment plan for each patient. Skilled, experienced audiology specialists employ state-of-the-art equipment and test techniques in assessing each patient’s hearing acuity. Pure Tone and Speech AudiometryThis assessment measures auditory acuity at varying pitches, as well as the patient’s ability to hear and discriminate speech. The patient is seated in a large, sound-treated room. Sounds are delivered to the patient’s ears through small ear plugs or through a vibrating device placed behind the ear. The patient is asked to respond when hearing the sound. The audiologist can determine the type and degree of hearing loss from this information. In some cases, the loss of hearing is a result of a mechanical problem in the outer or middle ear. In these cases, the audiologist will provide this information to the neurotologists to make decisions about medical or surgical treatments. When the assessment indicates that the hearing loss is a result of decline in function of the inner ear, then the audiologist can provide information regarding treatment options, such as hearing aids and assistive listening devices. Acoustic Immittance, Tympanometry and Acoustic Reflex StudiesThis evaluation provides the audiologist with information regarding the mechanical integrity of the ear. A small probe is placed in the patient’s ear. Pressure changes may be felt and sounds may be heard by the patient during this procedure. The mechanical components being evaluated consist of the ear drum, three small bones in the middle ear, and various ear muscles. This information is also shared with the physician who will determine the best treatment for a mechanical problem of the ear. Otoacoustic Emissions (OAEs) and Auditory Brainstem Response Testing (ABR)OAE testing evaluates the functioning of the outer hair cells located in the inner ear. A tiny microphone placed in the ear measures acoustic signals generated by these hair cells in response to auditory stimulation. This can provide the audiologist with objective information regarding the integrity of these hair cells used for hearing. It can also be useful in monitoring patients who are taking special antibiotics or chemotherapy medications, which can sometimes affect hearing. ABR testing evaluates the integrity of the nerve that runs from the inner ear to the brain. Electrodes are placed on the patient’s scalp while they sit quietly listening clicking sounds. Treatment ServicesMany conditions that result in hearing loss can be effectively treated medically. After the Penn audiologist has accurately determined that such a loss exists, the audiologist and an otologist work closely to determine who will provide the patient with the medical and/or surgical options. Often the patient's hearing will be reassessed during and/or after treatment to determine that the desired goal of improved hearing has been reached. When a hearing loss has no medical or surgical treatment, or if the hearing impaired patient chooses not to pursue such treatment, the audiologist can work with the patient to find the most effective rehabilitative option to improve communication and ultimately enhance quality of life. These options can include hearing aids, assistive devices, and counseling regarding useful communication strategies. Penn Medicine audiologists provide multiple specialty services designed to meet every individual's needs. Whether the problem is dizziness, loss of balance, or hearing loss; or whether the patient is a candidate for a hearing aid, cochlear implant, or in need of information regarding effective communication strategies, Penn audiology's state-of-the-art specialty centers and highly trained audiology specialists are available to meet the needs of patients throughout the region. Audiology Specialty Services and Treatment Programs:
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